A Smart Cable Offering Selective and Distributed Antenna Radiation Using RF Switches and Non-Conventional Hybrid Couplers

Abstract

A smart cable system and its elements for selective communications and sensor-based data collection within corridors, subways, and tunnels are proposed with applications to the aeronautical, transportation, and space sectors. The main hardware components of the cable system are defined by active and programmable radio-frequency (RF) switches that can enable controlled radiation at specific nodes or hotspots. More importantly, our proposed cable concept provides an evolution from the conventional coaxial cable with distributed antennas, as well as the classic leaky feeder cable, which is typically employed for communications within corridors and mines. Moreover, the proposed smart cable moves toward a hybrid wireless node and programmable system for selective coverage. Planar circuits and low-profile RF electronic components are employed for a low-cost implementation. In this communication, our focus is on the assessment of the proposed smart cable system, its radiating nodes (RNs), as well as the estimation of the system performance based on the measurements of the RN prototypes. Wireless networks, RFID sensors, and power transmission systems can be additional applications for the proposed smart cable. System performance estimations for a real corridor satisfy typical RFID sensitivity requirements with received power levels between −39 and −46 dBm in the worst case.